'Twas the start of basketball season

'Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the county

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All the coaches were stirring, to capture championship bounty.

The game film has been studied, and the practices complete.

They were dreaming of state championships for which they would one day compete,

At Evans Kevin Kenny might not have a lot of size inside,

But he has some talented guards who play with a ton of pride.

Trevor Foreman and Marcus Galvin will need to carry the load,

If the Knights plan to take a trip down the region championship road.

Greenbrier has experience, and talent as well,

Come Britton, come Cofer, and come Chad Waddell

The 'Pack just might have what it takes in Region 2

Maybe a title will come soon for Heckathorn's crew.

Lakeside might just be the surprise team to watch in the area this year.

They have been a little inconsistent, but the Panthers' talent is quite clear.

Chris Hall can score points in bunches and they have a solid new coach

So keep a close eye on the Panthers as the playoffs approach

Harlem might be small in numbers, but they don't lack for heart

After several early near misses, they will get some big wins in their holiday shopping cart.

Darius Johnson has been the Bulldogs go-to guy with a slew of big scoring nights

So, while the Bulldogs started off rough, it is not quite time to turn out the lights.

Grovetown has Mike Chandler and inside the kid's a beast.

The Warriors are hoping he will carry them to a few end-of-the-season hardcourt feasts

He has been stuffing up the stat sheet like Santa piling toys on his sleigh

Who knows, maybe Grovetown and Chandler can pull a shocker in Region 3-AAA.

Augusta Prep has some talent and is a contender in the GISA this season.

John Paul Lynn is a terrific all-around player, but he is not the only reason.

Forward Daniel Hull can play a little, too.

Hey, Daniel, I'm sure your big brother, Jim is awfully proud of you.

At Augusta Christian, the Lions are trying to recapture the success of years gone by.

I'm sure Quarles, Herzwurm and Armour will help ACS give it a try

Fortenberry and Smoak-Brown will also play key roles for the Lions' young team.

SCISA is pretty tough this year, but a playoff spot is not an impossible dream.

So I must spring out of this chair and plan some games to attend.

I really hope with the new year comes a major winning trend.

The only advice I have is play hard and don't give up the fight.

And of course, Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night.